Joetsu Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation

This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Joetsu, Niigata Prefecture, Japan. This average is based on long-term data collected between 1990 and 2020. Let's explore the details to provide you with a complete overview.

Joetsu has a relatively rain/snowy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 2168 mm (85 in) of rain/snowfall annually. Despite the high annual total, it does experience a distinct rainy season during certain months. Examine our detailed charts below to understand these seasonal patterns.

Monthly Precipitation Levels

The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm (0.01 in))

The climate in Joetsu shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect 257 mm (10 in) of precipitation during the wettest month January, distributed over 28 snowy/rainy days.

In contrast, May offers drier and sunnier days, with around 112 mm (4.4 in) of rainfall over 17 rainy days.

January, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 6°C (43°F). The city receives 67 hours of sunshine in this period. During the driest month May you can expect a temperature of 21°C (70°F). For more detailed insights into the city's temperatures, visit our Joetsu Temperature page.

Annual Rainfall in Japan: City Comparison

The map below shows the annual precipitation across Japan. You can also select the different months in case you are interested in a specific month.

Annual

Annual

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Legend

heavy rainfall

high

moderate

low

almost none

Heavy annual rainfall has been defined as more than 1000 mm (39 in) precipitation. High: 600 mm (24 in) to 1000 mm (39 in). Moderate: 250 mm (9.8 in) to 600 mm (24 in). Low: less than 250 mm (9.8 in).

Joetsu vs World: Rainfall Compared

Joetsu's average annual precipitation is 2168 mm (85 in). Let's compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:

In Lisbon, Portugal, the average annual precipitation is 774 mm (30 in), characterized by wet winters and dry summers typical of the Mediterranean climate.

Osaka, Japan, experiences 1507 mm (59 in) of rainfall annually, spread across the year with wetter summers.

Melbourne, Australia, has 690 mm (27 in) of rainfall annually, spread fairly evenly throughout the year.

Bangkok, Thailand, experiences a tropical monsoon climate with 1668 mm (66 in) of annual rainfall, with the heaviest precipitation occurring during September and October.

How is Precipitation Measured?

Precipitation amounts are measured using specific gauges installed at weather stations, collecting both rain and snow and any other type of precipitation. Rainfall is measured directly in millimeters, while that from snow and ice is obtained by melting it. Automated systems often incorporate heaters to make this easier.

Information from these stations is transmitted via Wi-Fi, satellite, GPS, or telephone connections to central monitoring networks. This information is immediately updated and integrated into weather models and forecasts.

Rainy Seasons: Many parts of the world have well-defined wet seasons where precipitation is distinctly higher. These are normally accompanied by lush vegetation and temperature patterns.

Dry Seasons: In areas where the climate is either desert or Mediterranean, the amount of precipitation is drastically reduced, leading to a shortage of water and arid conditions.

Interesting weather facts

Mawsynram in India is noted as being the wettest place on earth, with over 11 meters (36 feet) of rain falling every year.
In contrast, Antofagasta in Chile is among the driest places on the planet, getting less than 0.1mm (0.004 inches) per year, with some years recording virtually no rainfall.
Nearly 1,650 thunderstorm cells are estimated over the planet at any given time.

For more detailed information about Joetsu's weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Joetsu Climate page.

Current rainfall in Joetsu

10-Day Forecast